Our first-ever 5K Walk and Fun Run to benefit Veterans was a huge success, thanks to you! Nearly 500 participants descended upon the beautiful Oso Creek Trail on Veterans Way in Mission Viejo on Sunday, March 25th, for a day of fun, refreshments, prizes, and most importantly, to walk in their shoes to help Veterans overcoming challenges find meaningful employment after service.

This important event helps support the Working Wardrobes VetNet program to assist our Veteran clients in their job search.

Following the 5K, our walkers received a very special token of appreciation – a Challenge Coin.

Members of the Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team

Historically, Challenge Coins have been carried by members of the military and have traditionally been presented by unit commanders to recognize a special achievement by a member of the unit. Walk in Their Shoes participants received a Challenge Coin displaying the VetNet logo as a symbol of our appreciation for their generosity and volunteerism.

The day was special thanks to the Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team (WWSAT) who were on hand to present the Challenge Coins. This astounding group of men represents some of our nation’s bravest and most determined heroes, soldiers, and Veterans. Their armor now includes prosthetic legs and arms, along with extreme perseverance and remarkable attitudes.

We were so excited and proud to be joined by such an amazing organization. WWAST’s mission is to inspire and educate others while enhancing the health and welfare of Wounded Warrior Amputees. They helped us set up, register participants, and most importantly, hand out Challenge Coins to walkers and runners at the finish line. The men of Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team risked their lives to protect ours, and we were thrilled to have them on board.

Thank you to everyone who participated, and a special thank you to the Marines from Camp Pendleton who helped in many many ways. You made our inaugural Walk and Fun Run extremely meaningful and successful and we simply can’t thank you enough for your support.